Talk Back September 2012

Join the Conversation!

Read our story, What’s For Dinner, here, then go to our Facebook page and tell us your favorite family dinner. We’ll pick a random winner to receive the book, Dinner, A Love Story, by Jenny Rosenstrach.

The story behind the story

from our contributors

Krav Maga

Cari Scribner –When I talked to women who’ve been taking Krav Maga, I was amazed by their sense of self-reliance and confidence. The women had absolutely no prior training in self-defense, and most said they weren’t in great shape starting out. It was empowering for them and they are all sticking with it. It’s so much more than a laborious run on a treadmill! See Cari’s story here.

Child Advice

Jayne Keedle – The thing that struck me most of all in researching this story was that, despite the fact that times have changed and the world seems so very different now, the advice remains the same. Children need to know the basics, from the “three Rs” to the social niceties. Parents may have to make extra effort ensure their kids are interacting on a face-to-face basis but it’s still up to the parents to teach their children how to behave in social situations and to instill those core values right from the start. Those are guiding principles that will serve children well for the rest of their lives. See Jayne’s story here.

Alzheimer’s Prevention

“I would definitely want a doctor who was willing to take a chance”

Elizabeth Floyd Mair – I learned that there are two kinds of doctors: those who are unwilling to make any assertions that are not already absolutely medically proven, and those who will say, “Hey, this might help, and it won’t hurt you, so why not?” If I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, I would definitely want a doctor who was willing to take a chance on the unproven but possible. See Elizabeth’s story here.

News & Views: Indulgences

Beth Cooney – I loved learning that some of my favorite indulgences — like popcorn and chocolate — can be good for you. In a world where health news can often induce a terminal guilt-trip knowing some of my habits (like having something sweet every day) may actually be why my weight is normal for my age was a revelation. Turns out those of us who don’t deprive ourselves may be on the right track after all. Of course, moderation is key, so mini-Snickers here I come! See Beth’s story here.

School Lunches

Valerie Foster – I always thought that school food was horrid. Imagine my surprise when I learned that parents, educators, chefs, food service firms and entrepreneurs are joining forces to make the food our children eat healthier. Healthy food is the best defense to helping our kids pay attention in school and live up to their potential. And though we all know that parents shape their children, many of us have no idea how harmful a diet of fast food can be. To understand the importance a good diet plays in the success of a child should be the duty of every parent. I kind of knew this before. Now it’s become crystal clear. I’ll get off my soapbox now. See Valerie’s story here.

Mani/Pedi

Wendy Page – I was surprised by just how dangerous a mani/pedi can be if not done following the proper sterilization methods. I thought maybe you could get a small infection — certainly not the serious infections the podiatrist/spa owners spoke of. It will absolutely make me pay more attention to the whole process from now on. See Wendy’s story here.

We Asked You Answered!

What do you listen to when you’re exercising?

Melissa: Heavier music like Metallica and Nickelback when I’m weight training. 80’s and 90’s when I’m running or cycling. Music is so important for me when I work out. It completely motivates me 🙂

Rachel:I used to always listen to music. Since I began practicing yoga, though, I’ve found that no matter what form of exercise I’m engaged in I now cherish silence.

If you could be any age again for one week, what age would you be?

Colleen:I am torn between the simplicity of early childhood and the desire to modify the decisions of my adolescence. I suppose, if I still obtained the knowledge I have now, I would like to be 19 or 20 again. So many life-changing decisions had to be made, but so little was understood at that age.

Debra: 40! It was one of my best years. This year 55 has not been as kind.